Arthur Glenn Johnson

Arthur Glenn Johnson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, teacher, and veteran, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on November 26, 1932, in Bronson, Texas, Glenn was the cherished son of Arthur Johnson and Lorena Herndon.

Glenn lived a life defined by adventure, dedication, and unwavering love for his family. He met the love of his life, Margaret Ann Solum, at a Girl Scout-sponsored dance held to entertain the troops stationed at Parks Air Force Base in Pleasanton. Their extraordinary 71-year marriage was a testament to their enduring love and partnership.

Together they built a beautiful family. Glenn is survived by his devoted wife, Margaret; his son, Erick Arthur Johnson and wife Colleen; his daughter, Julia Ann Johnson and husband Steve; and five grandchildren: Trevor Arthur Johnson and wife Lyndsey, Tyler Jordan Johnson and wife Jennifer, Roxanne Jenay Johnson and fiancé Brandon, Lorena Adeline Estes and husband Patrick, and Margaret Ellen Johnson and fiancé Zack. He was also a proud great-grandfather to six great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense joy.

Glenn proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1952 to 1956, including service in Korea from 1955 to 1956. His military service remained a source of great pride throughout his life, and he often shared stories of his experiences with family and friends.

Following his military service, Glenn pursued higher education, earning his bachelor's degree from the University of San Francisco in 1962 and later a master's degree from the University of Kansas, where he became a lifelong and enthusiastic supporter of the Jayhawks.

Glenn devoted his career to education, teaching U.S. History, American Government, and Economics at Manteca High School until his retirement in 1993. He also taught at Delta College and spent several years teaching at Juvenile Hall, where his patience, kindness, and belief in the potential of every student left a lasting impact. He was remembered not only for what he taught, but for the encouragement and respect he showed every student. To generations of Manteca High students, he was simply "Mr. Johnson" or "Art."

Outside the classroom, Glenn found joy in many pursuits. He was an avid gardener who found peace in tending his plants, a talented home cook who delighted in preparing meals for his family, and an outdoor enthusiast who loved hiking, RV camping adventures with his grandchildren, and spending weekends at the family cabin. Rarely was Glenn without a book in his hands. He was a lifelong reader whose curiosity and love of learning never faded, and he found great pleasure in getting lost in a good book. Known for his quick wit and warm smile, Glenn had a gift for making everyone feel welcome. He lived a simple life, never complained, and found happiness in life's everyday pleasures. His gentle humor brightened countless gatherings, and he never failed to enjoy what he affectionately called "a demitasse" of wine with dinner. In retirement, he and Margaret traveled extensively, creating cherished memories together.

Glenn was a devoted member of Christ Lutheran Church, and his faith provided strength and guidance throughout his life. He was fiercely loyal, deeply protective of those he loved, and always placed the well-being of his family above all else.

The Johnson family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Sierra View Homes in Reedley for their compassionate care and support during Glenn's final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, an organization that held special meaning for Glenn.

His family and friends will forever cherish the memories they shared with him and the enduring legacy of love, kindness, laughter, humility, and service that he leaves behind.